The Columbia Pike Revitalization project has been causing headaches for residents and commuters for almost half a decade. According to arlingtoncounty.gov, The project’s goal is to widen the streets and build, or renovate, public transit stations up and down the busy corridor. Workers dig up the street with the assignment of upgrading the underground utilities. Local businesses are doing the best they can to navigate around the congestion and clutter caused by the road work. Improving the underground infrastructure is an important first step before widening the roads and improving the sidewalks, however, some businesses have reported the digging has led to smells of sulfur coming through the water pipes.Per Arlington County, the sulfur smell is a direct result of the digging and the disturbance of aged gas and water lines that run under the road.Construction equipment and facilities are stored on side streets improving the quality of life for the workers, but making life difficult for residents. Arlington County is working with urban tree preservation groups who fear the construction will eradicate nature in the neighborhood. The worry for the trees does not extend to the liter caused by the residents of the Pike however.As one portion of the roadwork ends, another begins. With a estimated end date of late 2025, drivers and residents will be relieved to know that this confusing congestion is almost done with.
Brett Sprinkel - COMM 361 
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